Computing Engineer – Applied Physics

What you'll do

As an Engineer with a specialisation in software development you will contribute to the maintenance, development, optimisation and upgrade of software tools used for the coordination of users, experiments and activities of the EP irradiation facilities (IRRAD/GIF++) at CERN. You will also contribute to explore opportunities to harmonise and consolidate the individual tools aiming to increase synergies, exploitation of communalities in the data model(s) and the reuse of programming code and software infrastructure, as well as investigate the new opportunities offered by ML/AL, in the field of the text, data and language (NLP) processing, for optimising them.

Your responsibilities

Adapt and modify the software tools reacting to changes according to the input of the facility coordinators. You will assist with the operation of these tools (IRRAD Data Manager, on-line databases, RADNEXT TA portal, etc.) and enable the seamless flow of information and data between users, domain experts and the facility coordinators by providing the technical means and interfaces for doing so.
Support the maintenance and upgrade of the software tools for the IRRAD and GIF++ facilities (Beam Instrumentation DAQ & controls, gamma-spectrometry laboratory, e-logs, etc.) and interface with the accelerator teams (BE-OP, BE-CSS) for developing operational pages with the WRAP technology as well as back-end servers (FESA, etc.).
Take care of improving the long-term sustainability of the software platform and tools and its integration within the wider IT service structure at CERN (single-sign-on systems, database systems, file and storage systems, backup and recovery, etc.).
Be tasked with fulfilling and organsing all aspects of deployment, availability and scalability and will be responsible for the smooth, secure and reliable operation and deployments of the IT services relying on the CERN infrastructure and services.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Proven ability to understand and analyse user-requirements and the capability to design, plan, implement, test, troubleshoot, and deploy modifications to web applications.
First-hand experience with platform-as-a-service (PaaS), container-based deployment and orchestration strategies.
Practical experience with test-driven software development (data modelling, version control, issue and change management, documentation, etc.).
Knowledge about web services and APIs and some experience with the use and design of such interfaces.
Knowledge and experience in modern ML/AI models and tools.
Experience with aspects of particle physics, especially detector R&D and/or irradiation experiments would also be an asset.
Your studies focused on Software Engineering.

Your skills

Knowledge of programming techniques and languages: Python 3.x, Django and adjacent technologies (Semantic UI frameworks, etc.) is required. Familiarity with PHP, Java, JavaScript & JQuery, Bootstrap would be helpful. Knowledge of C/C++/C# would also be an asset.
Competency in using gitlab for version control is essential.
Practical experience with at least one of the following relational database systems is expected PostgreSQL, MySQL and Oracle (more or all of them would be of advantage); knowledge of APEX database would also be an advantage.
Some familiarity with Docker and/or OpenShift based container implementations.
Proficiency in writing low level HTML and XML based user interface template blocks.
Shell scripting and general Linux based Dev-Ops capabilities.
Some knowledge about hardware for motor controls (ICP-DAS, Arduino, RS, M300, etc.) and/or gamma spectrometry (Canberra DSA-LX, etc.) would also be an asset.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/04/2026

Contract duration (in months): 6

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Employment conditions

Work in Radiation Areas.

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs per month (tax free) depending on your degree.
30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
A relocation package (installation grant and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
On-the-job and formal training including language classes.

Let's get you ready

Be sure to meet the eligibility criteria

You are a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State.
By the application deadline, you have a master’s degree with 2 to 6 years of professional experience since graduation or a PhD with a maximum of 3 years of professional experience since graduation. You are not eligible with only a bachelor’s degree.
You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
Please pay attention to the additional criteria and requirements for this specific position and mentioned above.

You will need these documents to complete your application

Your CV (English or French)
A copy of your most relevant diploma or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don't yet have your paper diploma)
Any document you consider relevant to your application

Your CERNDepartment

The EP department conducts research in experimental particle physics in close collaboration with and supporting the wider scientific community working at CERN. This includes designing and operating experiments, developing and constructing detectors, acquiring and analysing physics data.

Overview of CERN

Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

Ready To apply?

Be prepared with our resources and tips

All good?

Apply now Allow 15 minutes to complete your online application

Still have a doubt ? Here are the most frequently asked questions

What should I expect during my first week at CERN?

Your onboarding at CERN includes a comprehensive induction programme, which starts with an official welcome session at the beginning of each month. In addition, you will receive important information both before and after your arrival to ensure a smooth transition into your new role. This process is designed to help you get acquainted with CERN’s environment, your team, and the tools and systems you’ll be using.
How big would the team be?

The size of the team you'll be working with at CERN depends on the specific role and department. Some teams are small and highly specialized, while others are larger and more interdisciplinary. During the interview process, you'll have the opportunity to learn more about the team structure for the position you are applying for.
What is the working language at CERN?

The working languages at CERN are English and French. However, it is not always mandatory to speak both languages to work at CERN. We offer language training to help you acquiring the other language.
What support does CERN provide for relocation?

CERN does not offer direct assistance with relocation. However, depending on your role and specific criteria, you may be eligible for certain benefits such as an installation allowance and coverage of travel expenses to join CERN. These benefits are designed to help ease the transition when relocating to the Geneva area. For more information, please consult the “Salary, Benefits and Support“ page.
Do I need a visa to work at CERN?

Whether you need a visa to work at CERN depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. CERN assists with the necessary visa and work permit processes for its employees and visitors. The specific requirements will be communicated to you during the recruitment process.
What would my salary be?

Salaries at CERN are determined by a structured scale. Salaries are based on your role, qualifications, and experience, and are not subject to negotiation. Specific details will be provided as your application progresses. For more information, please refer to the dedicated page.